Welcome to the
20th Annual Long Lake Ice Fishing Derby
Nestled in the heart of Maine, the Long Lake Ice Fishing Derby has grown to become the state's largest ice fishing event. As we gear up for our 20th year in 2025, we're proud to continue a tradition that combines the thrill of ice fishing with community spirit and charitable giving.
Event at a Glance
Event Date: January 25 & 26, 2025
Location: Long Lake, St. Agatha, Maine, with multiple access points including Cross Lake, Square Lake, Eagle Lake, and more.
Prizes: Over $70,000 in cash and prizes, including a $25,000 cash purse.
Participation: Open to anglers of all ages, with categories for adults and youth.
Charity: All proceeds benefit the Edgar J. Paradis Cancer Fund, supporting local cancer patients.
Sustainability: In collaboration with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries, ensuring a balance of excitement and environmental responsibility.
Community: Powered by volunteers, the Derby fosters community spirit and celebrates the rich fishing tradition of Aroostook County.
Registration: Available online and offline, with easy-to-follow steps for everyone.
Our Humble Beginnings
It all began in 2005 when the members of the Black Bear Rod & Gun Club, facing a long Maine winter, decided to bring the community together with an ice fishing derby. With the support of the St. Agatha Town Manager and initial funding from the Club and the Town, the first Derby was launched in January 2006. The event’s overwhelming popularity laid the foundation for what would become an eagerly anticipated annual tradition.
A Weekend of Fun on the Ice
Each year, we invite anglers of all ages to experience the excitement of ice fishing on Long Lake. With over $70,000 in prizes and a significant cash purse, the Derby is not just a fishing event – it’s a weekend of fun and competition.
Conservation and Sustainability
Our partnership with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries is a testament to our dedication to sustainable fishing and ecological responsibility. Annually, Long Lake is stocked with salmon carefully raised in Southern Maine’s hatcheries. At one year old, these salmon are introduced to the lake, each marked by the removal of a fin for future identification by anglers. This practice supports the lake’s vibrant fishing culture and helps maintain a balanced ecosystem.
While both stocked and native fish thrive in Long Lake’s waters, there is a special reverence among anglers for ‘Native’ fish, which have spent their entire life cycle in this pristine environment. The conservation efforts ensure that Long Lake can continue to be a sanctuary for all its inhabitants, native or otherwise, and a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts who value both the sport and the environment.
Giving Back to the Community
From the outset, the Derby has been about more than just fishing. We’re honored to support the Edgar J. Paradis Cancer Fund, established in memory of a young local resident. Over the years, our contributions have made a significant impact, aiding St. John Valley residents in need of cancer treatments.
The Heart of Our Event | Our Volunteers
None of this would be possible without our amazing team of volunteers. Their dedication and hard work make each Derby a success, reflecting the strong community spirit that defines this event.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Experience
As we gear up for another exciting season, we invite you to join this extraordinary event. With a streamlined registration process, impressive prizes, and the promise of our biggest event yet, the 2025 Derby is set to be unforgettable. Register today and be part of Maine’s ice fishing legacy!